Moroccan tour : 9 Day desert tour from Fes
Duration
9 days
Tour Type
Overview
Included/Exclude
- Private 4x4 vehicle or minibus with A/C for the entire tour.
- Fuel for all transportation.
- English-speaking driver/guide.
- Breakfasts and dinners during the tour.
- Accommodation in a luxury riad in Dades Valley.
- Camel trek in the Merzouga Desert.
- Overnight stay in a traditional Berber desert camp.
- Cultural activities and entertainment, including Berber drum music.
- Lunches.
- Drinks and personal expenses.
- Entrance fees to historical sites and attractions.
- Travel insurance.
- Tips for the driver/guide and local staff.
- Any additional activities not mentioned in the itinerary.
Tour Plan
Upon your arrival at Fes-Saiss Airport, our friendly staff will be there to welcome you. You’ll be transferred to your charming Riad in the heart of Fes, where you can relax and settle in. This marks the beginning of your exciting 9-day Morocco desert tour.
Today, you will embark on a guided tour of Fes, one of Morocco’s most ancient and imperial cities, founded in 808 AD. Start at the majestic Golden Gate of the Royal Palace, and then enjoy panoramic views from a high vantage point overlooking the Medina. Walk through the winding streets of the Medina, discovering mosques, madrasas (old Koranic universities), caravanserais, and various religious sites. Visit the famous tanneries and the artisans' district, where you will see craftsmen practicing traditional skills passed down through generations. Fes is often referred to as the "city of artisans," and you’ll see why. Overnight in a Riad, soaking in the atmosphere of this historic city.
After an early breakfast, depart at 8:00 AM for an excursion to Chefchaouen, the renowned Blue City. This town, nestled between two mountains, is famous for its blue and whitewashed buildings. Stroll through its narrow, steep streets, explore charming squares, and admire beautifully decorated fountains. The central square, Uta al-Hamman, houses a fortress and a mosque with an octagonal base. The blend of Andalusian architecture and Moroccan culture gives Chefchaouen a unique charm. In the afternoon, return to Fes for another night in your Riad.
Begin your journey from Fes, heading towards the Middle Atlas Mountains. Your first stop is Ifrane, often called "Morocco’s Switzerland" due to its alpine-style architecture and cool climate. Continue to Azrou, a Berber village known for its cedar forest, where you might spot Barbary macaque monkeys. Proceed through the scenic landscapes to Midelt, a town situated between the Middle and High Atlas Mountains. Cross the Tizi Talghemt pass, known as the "Camel’s Neck," with its impressive, barren landscape. Travel along the lush Ziz Valley, dotted with palm groves, until you reach Erfoud, a town known for its fossil workshops. Finally, arrive at the spectacular dunes of Erg Chebbi in Merzouga. Here, you’ll stay in a Riad overlooking the Sahara Desert.
After breakfast, embark on a thrilling 4x4 jeep tour along the tracks once used for the Paris-Dakar rally. Visit a nomadic family living in the desert and share a cup of tea with them. See the oasis featured in the film "Sahara" and visit Khamlia, known as the "village of the blacks," where you’ll hear traditional Gnawa music. In the afternoon, switch from jeeps to camels and ride into the desert dunes. Witness an unforgettable sunset over the Sahara, then spend the night in a traditional Berber tent. Enjoy a delicious Berber dinner accompanied by drum music under a sky filled with stars.
Rise early to watch the sunrise over the dunes, then return by camel to Merzouga for breakfast and a shower. Visit the lively market in Rissani, known for its unique donkey exchange. In Erfoud, tour fossil workshops where ancient rocks are transformed into beautiful artifacts. Continue to the dramatic Todra Gorges, a favorite spot for climbers and hikers. Journey through the picturesque Dades Valley, often called the "Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs," and explore the Valley of Roses, famous for its rose products. After lunch in the village of Boutghrar, travel further through the Dades Valley, where you’ll spend the night. Enjoy dinner and accommodation in a local hotel.
After breakfast, set out for Ouarzazate, where you’ll visit the Taourirt Kasbah, once the residence of the Pasha of Marrakech. Continue to the famous Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site that has appeared in numerous films. Cross a scenic route featuring straw-built houses and mountain villages. Visit the Telouet Kasbah and have lunch in the area. In the afternoon, traverse the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n'Tichka pass, reaching an altitude of 2260 meters. Arrive in Marrakech in the late afternoon and settle into your Riad.
Enjoy a free day in Marrakech with an optional guided tour. Explore the city's rich history and vibrant culture by visiting the Saadian Tombs, the Bahia Palace, and the Koutoubia Mosque with its impressive minaret. Wander through the bustling souks and the famous Djemaa El-Fna Square, which transforms into a lively hub of entertainment in the evening. Spend the night in your Riad, reflecting on the day’s adventures.
